In a significant operation on February 1, Roanoke Police arrested 33-year-old Marcello Steelman following a search warrant at a residence on the 1100 block of 22nd Street NW. This raid uncovered a large cache of narcotics and weapons, marking a considerable success in the fight against drug distribution in the area.
The investigation leading up to the arrest was based on intelligence that Steelman was allegedly involved in large-scale narcotics distribution. Members of the Star City Drug and Violent Crime task force executed the search warrant, revealing an alarming amount of illegal substances and firearms.
The items seized from the property include over two pounds of fentanyl, over a pound of methamphetamine, 15 grams of crack cocaine, four firearms, and $5,333 in U.S. currency. This raid highlights the ongoing issue of drug distribution networks operating within residential communities, posing significant risks to public safety.
Following the search, Steelman was located in a vehicle on Panorama Ave. An attempt to stop him escalated into a chase, with Steelman driving around officers, colliding with a police vehicle, and then fleeing. The chase ended with Steelman abandoning his vehicle and attempting to escape on foot, but he was quickly apprehended by officers.